ELMIRA- The Chemung County Health Department announced today that it will offer free pertussis (whooping cough) vaccinations to persons aged 19 and older who have not had a booster shot since childhood vaccinations. 

The Health Department has a supply of 190 doses of adult vaccine that it will offer free to the public until the supply has been exhausted.  Individuals may get vaccinated at scheduled clinics to be held at the County Health Department, 103 Washington Street, Elmira on the following dates and times:

Tuesday, July 24 from 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm
Tuesday, August 7 from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm
Tuesday, August 21 from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm
Tuesday, August 28 from 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm

Individuals may also make appointments during the hours of 9:00 am to noon and 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm weekdays by calling 737-2028 and asking for the Immunization Clinic.

The nation is currently experiencing the worst outbreak of whooping cough in 50 years, and very young children are at a higher risk of serious illness.  Adults who have young children or who are in regular contact with children are urged to get a booster vaccination to prevent the spread of this illness to children.  Pertussis or whooping cough is a bacterial infection of the respiratory system that is often characterized by prolonged, deep coughing.  The illness is easily spread from person to person due to the coughing, and vaccination is the most effective means of preventing the spread of the disease.

Children who are up to date on their vaccinations for school do not require a booster shot.

For more information contact the Chemung County Health Department at 607-737-2028.